Frequently Asked Questions

When will I find out if I have been accepted into the entry-level occupational therapy program at UAB?

The program's applications are handled through the Occupational Therapy Centralized Application System at OTCAS. The system opens in the middle of July with applications accepted until February 1st. Applications are processed by the program as they are verified by OTCAS with interviews typically scheduled January-February. The 50 positions in the cohort fill up quickly; given review and interview timelines, you are encouraged to complete the application process early.

Do I have to have all the prerequisite courses completed before I can apply?

All coursework must be completed by June 1st of the year you are entering the program. You may be accepted into the program with certain conditions such as completion or prerequisites with a grade of B or better. At the time of application, you will be asked to present a plan for completion of any outstanding prerequisites;

I didn't do well early in my academic career. Will that count against me?

You must have a B or better in all prerequisite coursework. If you repeat a course, the higher grade is considered.

Should I repeat courses that I made C’s in?

You should only if you can't possibly improve your GPAs by taking additional coursework in a given subject area. If you retake a course, OTCAS will average the grades from the two courses to calculate the GPA.

I graduated a long time ago, will I have to retake any course work?

The content of prerequisite coursework completed more than 8 years prior to the application deadline will need to be retaken.

What should I major in?

You should major in whatever area of study you enjoy most. Students have entered with degrees in psychology, biology, education, kinesiology, child life, music, and athletic training to name only a few. An undergraduate degree in any major other than occupational therapy is acceptable for application to the entry-level occupational therapy education program at UAB.

Do Alabama residents get preferential treatment?

No, all applicants to the entry-level occupational therapy education program are evaluated equally.

How can I become an Alabama resident?

You must live in the state for one year immediately preceding the date of registration. You must show intent to stay in Alabama indefinitely and have more substantial connections with Alabama than any other state. For more information please visit - UAB Nonresident Tuition Policy

How many hours of occupational therapy related observation are required?

No observation hours are required to apply for admission to the entry-level occupational therapy education program at UAB. However, we highly recommend you to have experienced occupational therapy practice in at least two or more practice settings. You should explore as many aspects of the field as you can to get a feel for the profession before applying. The American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc. has excellent online resources for prospective students who are exploring the profession. To observe an occupational therapist, contact local clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and community agencies in your area.

When does the program start?

The program is full-time and begins in the fall term which usually starts the second half of August. The curriculum is a set curriculum and must be started and completed in a specified period of time. Five classroom-based semesters and two Fieldwork II semesters (7 semesters total). You will graduate in December at the end of the fall semester of your second Fieldwork II placement.

How much does it cost to obtain an occupational therapy degree at UAB?